When a family experiences the death of a loved one, the presence of a compassionate and well-prepared bereavement minister can be a source of comfort, strength, and grace.
Catholic Cemeteries & Mortuaries’ Ministry of Consolation invites parish ministers, clergy, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and all those called to accompany grieving families to participate in the upcoming
San Fernando Region Bereavement Training Workshop Series, graciously hosted by
Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Encino.
As host site for the current series,
Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church welcomes individuals from across the San Fernando Region who are dedicated to supporting those who mourn. This eight-session program will help participants deepen their understanding of the grief journey while developing the practical skills, pastoral sensitivity, and spiritual grounding needed to serve others with confidence and compassion. Through presentations, reflection, and guided discussion, attendees will explore the grieving process, effective bereavement ministry, servant leadership, funeral rituals, different types of grief, prayer, and caregiver self-care.
Held at
Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 5011 White Oak Avenue in Encino, the workshop provides a welcoming environment where ministers and caregivers can learn, share experiences, and strengthen their call to accompany grieving families with faith, hope, and mercy.
If you are unable to participate in the current series hosted by
Our Lady of Grace, we encourage you to contact
MaryAnn McAdams regarding future bereavement training opportunities and upcoming workshop schedules throughout the region. We would be honored to help you join this important ministry of presence, compassion, and hope.
Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church
5011 White Oak Ave
Encino, CA 91316
Workshop Schedule
The San Fernando Region workshop series begins Monday, September 28, 2026, and continues on select Monday and Thursday evenings through Monday, November 16, 2026. Sessions include:
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Session I: Welcome and Overview of the Grief Process
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Session II: Effective Bereavement Ministers
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Session III: Servant Leadership
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Session IV: “You Can’t Give What You Ain’t Got”
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Session V: Funeral Rituals and Mortuary Services
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Session VI: Different Griefs Have Different Needs
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Session VII: Rituals: Praying Through Our Grief
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Session VIII: Connecting the Dots and Caring for the Caregiver, followed by a commissioning ceremony and reception
Who Should Attend?
This training is ideal for parish bereavement ministers, clergy, ministry volunteers, caregivers, counselors, hospice and healthcare professionals, and anyone who feels called to walk with others through grief and loss. Whether you are beginning your ministry or strengthening years of service, these workshops offer meaningful formation rooted in compassion, community, and Catholic faith.
Registration and Certificate Information
The full series is $95 and includes all eight sessions and program materials. To receive a certificate, participants must attend all eight sessions. If a serious reason prevents attendance at a session, participants may make up that session at a subsequent program.
Register Today
Space is limited, and those interested in serving grieving families with greater compassion and confidence are encouraged to register early. Join us for this important formation opportunity and help strengthen the ministry of consolation throughout the San Fernando Region.
